'07 GT Mustang

Thursday

Aug 9, 2007 at 12:01 AM

The Ford Mustang continues to be one of the best-selling cars in America. In fact, one out of every two sports cars sold in this country is a Mustang while the modern-era, rear-wheel drive muscle car also claims the title as the nation's top-selling convertible. This week I had the chance to cruise in the 2007 Mustang GT Convertible - and it didn't even rain. My track record with rain and convertibles is somewhat legendary. Usually, you can bank on heavy rain during weeks when the test vehicle is a convertible.

It must be that Mustang magic. Available in coupe and convertible body styles, the Mustang is offered in four trim lines - V6 Deluxe, V6 Premium, GT Deluxe and GT Premium. (For this review, we're not going to focus on the Mustang Shelby GT500 - that's a review all on its own.)

For those in the Mustang market, be forewarned. Once you drive the GT, there is no turning back. Not that there's anything wrong with the V6 Mustang. Powered by a 4.0-liter V-6 engine (210 horsepower/240 lbs.-ft. torque) and mated to either a smooth-shifting five-speed manual or five-speed automatic, the V6 is spirited, nimble and with a base price starting below $20,000, a great value.

But once you get behind the wheel of the GT, start the engine and hear the roar of the 300 horsepower V-8 come to life, you embark on a ride that is absolute driving pleasure. The GT is a car designed for those who love to drive, and it does not disappoint. Standard safety features include Ford's Personal Safety System, which includes dual-stage driver and front-passenger airbags. An optional anti-theft package is also offered which helps guard against tow-away thefts and includes an interior motion sensor to detect smash-and-grab break-ins.

It's also nicely loaded.

The V6 Deluxe includes power windows, mirrors and door locks, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, audio system with CD player and auxiliary input jack, tilt steering wheel, cruise control and 16-inch wheels. The V6 Premium adds machined-aluminum wheels with chrome spinner, Shaker 500 audio system with six-disc CD changer and six-way power driver's seat.

The GT Premium adds the Shaker 500 premium audio system and Aberdeen leather-trimmed embossed sport bucket seats. For the 2007 model year, Ford is also offering GT California Special edition package and a GT special appearance package. While produced in limited numbers, the California package adds 18-inch wheels, side scoops, unique tape stripes, black leather trimmed seats, chin spoiler and ground effects. In addition to unique badging, the GT appearance package adds an engine cover and a hood scoop.

While we're entering the end of the model year, I can tell you the excitement will continue in '08 for the Mustang lineup as Ford plans to add the Shelby GT500KR, the most powerful production Mustang ever produced. With an availability set for next spring, the GT500KR will deliver an estimated 540 horsepower.

For those in the market for an exciting, yet affordable sports car, the Mustang is a must test drive. Neal White has been covering the automotive industry for more than 15 years and is affiliated with the Texas Auto Writers Association and the Midwest Automotive Media Association. Comments may be sent to Neal at neal.white@waxahachiedailylight.com.

2007 Ford Mustang GT. (06/21/06)

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